By Sara Brown

The New York Times this week published a warning about the potential negative effects of wearable technologies. The article cites a three-year-old WHO study on the impact of cell phone radiation on the brain as the “most definitive” research on the topic. That study labeled cell phone use “possibly carcinogenic.” To be honest, I’m a bit surprised, given the inconclusive research, that this venerable publication stoops to the level of comparing wearable tech to cigarettes at the opening of the article.

Of course, the article centers around the new Apple Watch, and completely ignores the host of wearable applications designed specifically for the healthcare marketplace. Connected heart rate, blood pressure and vital sign monitors; glucometers, and even pill boxes are providing patients with chronic disease a tremendous improvement in quality of life, while also improving compliance with treatment regimen -- ultimately reducing return hospital visits, medical complications and the cost associated with their long term care.

With all the potential benefits, I would hate to see articles like this one turn the public against wearable technology at large -- after all, if you buy enough wearables, just think how well they could protect you from skin cancer.